The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Alexander R. Marotta (MCSN: 354932), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity action against Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the night of 13 – 14 September 1945. Repeatedly crossing the ridge 1,000 yards south of Henderson Field while it was being swept by hostile fire, Private First Class Marotta brought units into line in their proper places, carried up ammunition and assisted in the reorganization of units disrupted in the darkness. With relentless fighting spirit and utter disregard for his own personal safety, he engaged in vigorous hand-to-hand combat with Japanese troops until he was wounded and evacuated from the field of battle. His heroic conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.